Flood Watch issued for Sullivan County

Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau has issued a Flash Flood Watch associated with Heavy Rain Potential into Monday evening.

Fanslau said, "The National Weather Service (NSW) has issued a Flash Flood Watch in Sullivan County for periodic heavy rain that will continue to affect the watch area through the day Monday (Labor Day) and into Monday evening. Additional rainfall amounts of one (1) two (2) inches are expected for most areas, with localized amounts of three (3) inches or greater likely in more persistent and heavier rain bands.

The combination of today`s heavy rainfall along with the ground being saturated from last weekend`s rainfall with Hurricane Irene will increase the threat for Flash Flooding. Since the NSW cannot pinpoint where the heaviest rain will fall at this time, residents should pay attention to the later forecasts and listen for flash flood warnings and flood advisories. Be ready to respond to rapid flooding. Be watchful and looking for NY Alert messages.

Residents are advised to not drive your vehicle into areas where the water covers the roadway. The water depth may be too great to allow your car to cross safely. Move to higher ground

I strongly urge any resident who lives near a stream, creek or river to be prepared and alert as this storm progresses, and to take preventative measures to protect their property through sandbags, etc. Outdoor, moveable property should be secured, and indoor property should be put up in case of flooding in the home. Furthermore, in case of emergency, all residents in these areas should make preparations to vacate their home if conditions warrant, and are strongly urged to comply with any and all reasonable requests from law enforcement or emergency responders during an emergency.

County residents, particularly those in flood-prone areas, are also urged to have enough flashlights and extra batteries, canned goods and bottled water for 48 hours, in case of power outage or emergency. Residents are encouraged to make arrangements to check on elderly neighbors, and arrange for pets to be housed either inside, or with proper shelter.

During the storm all County residents are urged to remain indoors and off roadways whenever possible. If residents must drive, they are advised to exercise extreme caution when driving through this storm, and to pay special attention not to drive through pooling or standing water. If there are flood conditions on a roadway, please do not travel through the water.

Sullivan County officials will be in contact with all towns, village and fire departments in the flood-prone areas, to ensure all precautionary measures are being taken, and implementing contingency plans in case of flooding. County officials will remain in contact with these towns, village and volunteer first-responders throughout the storm, as they monitor the situations in their own communities.

Should flooding occur in Sullivan County, residents and visitors are urged to visit the County website, http://www.co.sullivan.ny.us[1], for current news and information."